Which macro lens to use with Panasonic DC-GX9?

If you are interested in dipping your toes to see if you like macro,you might want to consider close-up filters (screw into front filter thread) or extension tubes as a cheap way of trying it out. There are lots of threads on here that talk about options for those.

If you do decide to spend the big bucks for a macro lens, choice of focal length is important. You need to pick a focal length that suits the subjects you are trying to capture, in the way you want to capture them. There are four considerations:

• Working distance: A longer lens will allow you to work further from your subject. With things like live insects, a longer lens can be very important. A longer working distance also means it is less likely the lens will block your light.
• Magnification: A longer lens will allow more, assuming the lens actually racks far enough. Some macro lenses are 1:1, so 1:2, etc. Read the fine print.
• Depth of Field: A longer lens has less usable DOF at a given f-stop.
• Background: A longer lens includes less background. This affects the look of your shot.

I have 4 macro lenses (plus extension tubes and close-up filters). Each tool is useful for different situations. With the lenses, I use the them this way:

• 30mm. Mostly used when hiking or generally wandering around without a specific subject in mind. I use it mostly hand held. It is great for "close-ups" of flowers and leaves, rocks, architectural details, etc. I usually don't try to get 1:1 magnification, even though it is capable of it. Versatile enough to use as a substitute for a 25mm prime. A forgiving lens.
• 45mm. My most used focal length for planned macro work, either in my studio or on location. Allows a bit of background to provide context. Often use with extension tubes for even greater magnifcation. Also makes a good portrait lens.
• 56mm. This is a bit of an oddball. It's a Lensbaby Velvet. I didn't buy it primarily as a macro lens even though it produces excellent results. My least used macro. I'm not much into live insects. But still fits neatly into the gap between the 45 and the 90, when I need the extra working distance.
• 90mm. Mostly used with extension tubes for planned extreme close up (greater than 1:1). I find the extra working distance makes it a lot easier to set up lights. Often use it with focus stacking.

AndiPan wrote:

...

Any recommendations?

Thanks.

I've used Panasonic's 45mm with great success. I have photographs posted:

Panasonic 45mm f/2.8 Macro

- Richard

Eric Nepean wrote:

Ghost1999 wrote:

.....

• 90mm. Mostly used with extension tubes for planned extreme close up (greater than 1:1). I find the extra working distance makes it a lot easier to set up lights. Often use it with focus stacking.

Which lens is the 90mm?

Tamron Adaptall f2.8.

2nd best $100 I ever spent

Ordering the extension tubes, as we speak. For now.  Thanks.

Thank you all. Very useful advice. Glad to hear no problems with the Oly 60 mm and GX9.

For now, I will start with the extension tubes. It will help me find the focal distance that works for me best.

Something tells me I will get a macro lens soon after.